Lessons Learned in Affordable Childcare Ministry
Sparrow’s Nest in St. Charles County, MO, shifted from maternity care to offering low-cost childcare for parents. Here’s what they’ve learned along the way.
Entries by Avery West
How the Church Can Be the Village
Learn how the Church can meet the emotional, spiritual, and practical needs of new mothers through sustainable, relational ministry that bridges internal discipleship and external outreach.
Partnering with Landlords for Affordable Housing
Charities often face challenges in providing affordable housing due to limited resources, but partnering with landlords who share a heart for ministry provides an innovative way forward. Hear about two ministries that combine housing with support services. Avery West shares.
Questions to Ask Before Starting a Supportive Housing Ministry
What does flourishing look like for someone with a mental illness or physical disability who can’t live on their own? Consider these six questions as you seek a dignified, permanent housing solution.
The Point of Giving to the Poor, According to Thomas Aquinas
Everyone agrees we should give to the poor. But the compelling question is why? Member Engagement Director, Avery West, explores the purpose of giving to the poor through the eyes of thirteenth-century philosopher and theologian, Thomas Aquinas.
Measuring Impact: Notes from a True Charity Chat
Learn the best question to ask after a developmental class, how to keep in touch with program graduates–and more–from this summary of a recent True Charity Network member conversation.
Transitional Housing Tips: Notes from a True Charity Chat
In September, True Charity Network members from around the country gathered for a “True Charity Chat,” a casual time of brainstorming and sharing experiences. This quarter’s topic was “All Things Transitional Housing.”
Starting an Outreach for Fathers? Three Tips and Three Resources
The need for equipping fathers in poverty is no secret, but how should we go about meeting that need? The directors of LifePlan and Good Dads share their advice and resources for fatherhood ministries just getting off the ground.
8 Ways to Share the Effective Charity Vision
In February, True Charity Network members from around the country gathered to chat about “Sharing the TC Mindset with your Team.” As always, our network members had some great ideas!
Recruiting Clients Ready for Change: November’s True Charity Chat
During a recent True Charity Network forum, members shared that they’ve learned they can’t guarantee any individual will desire empowering, relational services, but they can create a loving, dignified environment and offer real opportunity to those who are ready. Learn how in this article!
Low-Cost Health Care with Dignity
When Good Samaritan Health Centers of Gwinnett went bankrupt in 2005, they knew they’d have to make some changes to their free clinic model. Dr. Greg Lang, Executive Director, explains, “As a healthcare center, we have to use highly-educated, licensed providers. We can’t rely on volunteers, like many other nonprofits are able to do. Charging for services became a financial necessity.”
10 Ways Your Church Can Walk with Moms Post-Roe
Post-Roe America: True Charity’s own Avery West explains how churches can respond in this article originally published in The Gospel Coalition.
Loving our Neighbors Better: A Pastor’s Story of Ministry Transition
Pastor Scott knew his church’s food pantry wasn’t serving the community as well as it could. Learn how he discovered a new model of ministry, got his staff on board, brought clients into the conversation, and finally transitioned to a food co-op.
3 Ways to Empower Mentees
How can you set up your mentoring program to affirm the unique gifts of each mentee, encourage mutuality, and set the mentee up for self-sufficiency after the program ends? Check out these three ideas from our upcoming Mentoring Model Action Plan.
How Earning a Bike Can Change a Life
Bearings Bike Works in Atlanta, GA lets kids earn bikes by learning how to build and repair them. Learn how one couple used exchange to bring new wheels and new life to their neighborhood. True Charity’s Avery West tells their story here.
